After visiting a fortune teller, Edmond realizes his life is not the one he desires. He decides to flee his previous existence and pursue a new life. Edmond meets a man in a bar who gives his advice that launches a series of mishaps that ultimately guide him through the search for his humanity.
From writer David Mamet (Glengarry Glen Ross) and director Stuart Gordon (Re-Animator) and featuring an all-star cast that includes William H. Macy (Fargo), Joe Mantegna (House of Games), Mena Suvari (American Beauty), Denise Richards (Starship Troopers), Bokeem Woodbine (Queen & Slim) and Julia Stiles (The Bourne Identity).
For thoughts on Edmond, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic here.
Video Quality
Edmond returns to Blu-Ray after previously being available in a similar incarnation with a digital AVC encoded 1080p transfer derived from a mostly solid older master. This transfer maintains the natural film grain of the source without any hints of digital tinkering. The grain presents as organic rather than overwhelmingly noisy, which allows for greater depth to the image. The thick nature of the grain can become a bit overwhelming against certain backgrounds. Overall clarity and detail is pretty strong with some occasional drawbacks, and skin tones lean a bit more towards the yellow side of the spectrum with subtle facial features easily noticeable in closeup. Colors are well saturated and suit the stylized look that was intended by Stuart Gordon. Contrast is handled well with only slightly overblown highlights to add to the surreal reality of the film. Black levels could stand to be a bit more deep, but crush does not serve as a notable issue. Instances of print damage pop up in spurts, but not so much as to detract from the overall enjoyment. This new presentation from MVD Entertainment serves as a decent exhibition of the film.
Audio Quality
This new Blu-Ray comes with both a DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio and a LPCM 2.0 mix that features all of the sounds of the film quite well. This is a film that utilizes its score quite effectively in a way that makes the film really come alive. It is presented with a great clarity and a pleasing fidelity as it comes through the room. The dialogue holds up wonderfully, coming through clearly without being stepped on by the music or sound effects. The environmental effects are delineated nicely within the few more crowded sequences. Subtle elements such as the clanging of silverware in the restaurant or shuffling of cards holds up well in the mix. The surround speakers are rarely given a full workout, but this track does showcase some nice support in the low end in particular instances. The track avoids most instances of age related wear and tear or distortion. This is a track that represents the film in an impressive manner. Optional English subtitles are provided on this disc.
Special Features
- Audio Commentary #1: Director Stuart Gordon, Producer Duffy Hecht, and Actor/Producer Lionel Mark Smith provide a really interesting commentary track in which they discuss their relationship to David Mamet and the source material, what has made the play stick with them since first seeing it in the ‘80s, the controversial nature of the work, how they adapted the material to a feature film, the obstacles in shooting locations that popped up and more. In the process of explaining some of the controversial elements, there are some words said that are likewise controversial.
- Audio Commentary #2: Writer David Mamet is not as loquacious and his material might lead you to believe, but when he does speak his insights are generally interesting. The first track is much more active and informative.
- Every Fear Hides A Wish – The Edmond Diary: An 11-minute piece which provides a fly-on-the-wall look at the production of the film along with some on-set interviews with the cast and crew.
- Deleted Scenes: Seven minutes of unused material is provided here in its rough form including a longer lead up to the tarot scene and a longer scene with Julia Stiles.
- Trailers: The two-minute trailer is provided here for Edmond. There are also trailers provided for Dirty Laundry, Final Justice, Savage Dog and Zeroville.
Final Thoughts
Edmond is an intentionally provocative work from David Mamet, but it is hard to say if there is anything of depth being conveyed beneath the surface. The place of toxic masculinity and white privilege in our society are issues worthy of dissecting, but this character seems to be basking in his distasteful nature without a meaningful point. William H. Macy gives a commanding performance in the titular role, and the journey is rarely boring for those who feel like tumbling down this rabbit hole. MVD Entertainment has released a Blu-Ray featuring a pretty good A/V presentation and a couple of interesting special features. This one can be a tough sit, but there are people who will likely enjoy this one.
Edmond is currently available to purchase on Blu-Ray and DVD.
Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.
Disclaimer: MVD Entertainment has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
Dillon is most comfortable sitting around in a theatre all day watching both big budget and independent movies.
